Read more: Local, Crime, Airport, Full Body Scanning, Travelers, Controversial, Technology, Security Checkpoints, Screener, TSA, Valley International Airport, Federal Stimulus Package
Valley airports likely won't be equipped with the new full body scanning machines anytime soon, but travelers departing to larger airports may just encounter the controversial technology.
The machines show the body's contours on a computer stationed in a private room away from the security checkpoints.
A person's face is never shown. The person's identity is also never revealed to the screener reviewing the images, according to the TSA.
Still, the federal rules in place bring little comfort to people at Valley International Airport who called them an invasion of privacy.
"You can see everything," Gene Robles of San Benito, said.
Already 40 machines are in use at 19 airports nationwide.
Boston's Logan International Airport just received one. It’s among the 150 bought with money from the federal stimulus package signed by the President last year.
The body-scanning technology is supposed to detect hidden explosives and other weapons amid a threat highlighted by an attempted bombing on Christmas day.
Passengers do have the right to opt out of body scanning for a more traditional screening like a pat down.
Myers said people need to put national security ahead of their concerns.
"I think it gives away too much but if it would stop the terrorists... It's worth the risk."
